Alan Berkenwald, MD

The most difficult question I am asked by my patients is, "Why?" Why did I become an addict? Why do I still have cravings? Why do I slip up and use, even thought I know it's wrong and I feel stupid and horrible doing it? Despite all my knowledge, education and experience, my answer essentially is, "Because."

The paper rustled and bunched up here, there, and everywhere as I rolled him from one end of the table to the other. Finally I said, "I need to do a rectal exam." He shot up straight, and yelped, "A what?"